SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Illinois has jumped from an “F” to an “A” on Shared Hope International’s Just Like Me Report Card, ranking second in the nation for its human trafficking survivor policies. The dramatic improvement follows the passage of the Illinois Statewide Trauma-Informed Response to Human Trafficking Act (SB 2323), signed earlier this year by governor JB Pritzker.
“Illinois is now among the leading states in the fight against human trafficking,” said Pritzker, who credited the new law for establishing a coordinated, trauma-informed system to support survivors. The act creates uniform policies, training, and infrastructure across state agencies to better identify and assist victims.
ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly called human trafficking “a modern-day form of slavery” and said the law helps survivors feel safer sharing critical information with law enforcement.
The legislation was developed through the Joint Human Trafficking Working Group, led by the Illinois State Police and Department of Human Services, and involving more than 60 agencies and advocacy organizations.
Key provisions include:
- Expanded screening of individuals in state care to identify trafficking victims.
- Mandatory training for inspectors, investigators, and law enforcement on detecting trafficking.
- Standards for care and training for service providers and Children’s Advocacy Centers.
- A coordinated statewide plan linking law enforcement, healthcare, and community partners.
In line with the new law, ISP also launched the Illinois Trafficking Enforcement Group (ITEG), a multi-agency team modeled after state drug task forces, to strengthen efforts against traffickers while connecting survivors with trauma-informed services.
Dulce M. Quintero, Secretary of the Department of Human Services, said the initiative reflects “the power of community – survivors, advocates, and public servants coming together to build systems rooted in dignity and care.”